SAG-AFTRA Launches Strike Over AI Protections in Video Games - Entertainment

Video game performers represented by SAG - AFTRA have voted to go on strike starting on Friday due to concerns surrounding Artificial intelligence protections in a proposed new contract . This strike comes after negotiations between video game actors and major developers have been ongoing for over a year and a half , while last year , actors and writers unions reached a deal with studios in the fall . SAG - AFTRA , representing 160,000 actors , is in negotiations with a group of video game companies including Activision Productions , Blindlight , Disney Character Voices , Electronic Arts , Formosa Interactive , Insomniac Games , Take 2 Productions , VoiceWorks Productions , and WB Games.

"Although agreements have been reached on many issues important to SAG - AFTRA members , the employers refuse to plainly affirm , in clear and enforceable language , that they will protect all performers covered by this contract in their A.I. language,"

SAG - AFTRA stated in a news release . The video game producers expressed disappointment in the union 's decision to walk away from negotiations when they were close to a deal . However , the producers have found common ground on 24 out of 25 proposals , including wage increases and safety provisions . The offer made by the producers addresses SAG - AFTRA 's concerns and includes meaningful AI protections for performers.

This strike marks the second time voice actors and performance capture artists have taken Strike action , with the previous strike lasting 11 months in October 2016 . The actors ' last interactive contract expired in November 2022 without any AI protections . SAG - AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree - Ireland emphasized the need for fair and equitable treatment for members in relation to AI technology.

In September , video game voice actors and motion capture performers overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike if new labor contract negotiations fail . SAG - AFTRA also announced a deal with Replica Studios , an AI voice technology company , to establish protections around the licensing of digitally replicated voices . However , concerns remain over the potential misuse of AI technology in the industry , such as replicating actors ' voices or likenesses without consent.

Some actors , like Roger Clark , known for his role as Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 2 , have spoken out against the unauthorized use of AI technology to replicate their voices in memes and other content . The issue of AI voice replication has become a growing concern in the entertainment industry , with union leaders emphasizing the need for proper safeguards to protect performers in the digital space.